Daily EV news · Global · 22 May 2026
Electric Vehicles
Toyota study finds North American PHEV owners charge 7 to 9 days out of 10, contrasting with lower European rates
A May 2026 peer reviewed study by Toyota's Research Institute North America analysed telematics from over 6,000 Toyota and Lexus PHEVs in the US and Canada. Toyota RAV4 PHEV owners plugged in on 7 out of every 10 driving days, while Lexus NX 450h+ owners charged 8 to 9 times per 10 driving days. Only 9 per cent of Toyota and 4 per cent of Lexus drivers rarely charged. The findings align with 2024 Australian data but contrast sharply with a European study released three months earlier showing far lower charging frequency.
Why it matters
The data informs infrastructure planning and policy decisions around PHEV incentives, particularly as charging behaviour varies significantly by region. For charge point operators, understanding actual plug in rates helps forecast demand where PHEVs represent a growing share of the electrified vehicle mix.
Citroen confirms £15,000 electric 2CV for 2028 launch, targeting new European urban vehicle class
Citroen CEO Xavier Chardon announced at a Stellantis investor day that the iconic 2CV will return as an all-electric city car priced around £15,000, with a production launch in 2028 following a Paris Motor Show debut. The vehicle will be built at the Pomigliano d'Arco factory in Italy and designed for a new M1E vehicle class positioned between the £10,000 Ami quadricycle and the £20,000 E-C3 passenger car. Citroen describes the electric 2CV as part of a new wave of smaller, more affordable EVs aimed at European urban transport, alongside a planned mini Fiat Panda from parent company Stellantis.
Why it matters
A sub-£20,000 urban EV class creates a new charging infrastructure requirement for lighter, city-focused vehicles that may need different power profiles and locations than current passenger EVs. The 2028 timeline gives charge point operators four years to plan network coverage for this emerging affordable urban segment in European markets.